The arteries are blood vessels that carry blood from the heart to all areas of the body. Veins carry blood back to the heart once all the oxygen and nutrients have been utilised. Sometimes this system can be affected due to problems with either of the network of vessels.

ARTERIAL PROBLEMS

Many problems within the arteries can affect the rate and efficiency of the blood getting down to the feet. Conditions such as hypertension, atherosclerosis, heart disease and diabetes can all impair arterial function.

If the blood flow to your feet has been affected, improvement may be obtained by following these guidelines:

Stop smoking.

Maintain an ideal body weight.

Successfully control Diabetes or high blood pressure.

Regular exercise encourages blood flow.

Avoid tight garters, stockings etc, that may risk cutting off the circulation. A full range of Circulation socks can be found in our ONLINE PRODUCTS section.

Rub cream into the feet. This not only has a massaging effect, which increases circulation, but also improves skin condition that can be adversely affected by poor circulation.

VENOUS PROBLEMS

Varicose Veins, Thrombosis, Oedema (swelling) and Ulceration may indicate that the blood is not returning back to the heart efficiently. The veins may not be working (pumping blood back to the heart) as well as they should be.

Steps to assist blood flow back to the heart

Bandaging/Elastic stockings help to maintain venous drainage and prevents the pooling of fluid around the ankles and feet. They work more efficiently if applied before getting out of bed. This limits fluid accumulating before their application.

Elevating limbs when sitting reduces swelling and aids transport of blood back to the heart.

Try not to engage in prolonged periods of standing or sitting in the one position.

CHILBLAINS

Chilblains are bluish/red areas of discolouration that can sometimes be swollen and lead to tissue (skin) breakdown. They are most commonly found on the underside of the toes, the big toe joint and the heels. They usually occur in the cold, Winter season.

Causes

The most common cause of chilblains is prolonged exposure to cold or dampness. This effects the circulation to the feet and constricts the small vessels in the toes, leading to chilblain formation. Some people can be more susceptible to chilblains by having:

Hormonal or nervous system factors that affect the small blood vessels

About Galleria Podiatry

Galleria Podiatry has helped patients of all ages overcome lower limb ailments for more than 10 years. To promote your quick recovery, we employ six experienced podiatrists, offer bulk billing options and keep long office hours to accommodate most patients’ schedules.

Our Morley location serves residents throughout the Perth area, including those in Bayswater, Dianella and Noranda. Contact us today to schedule your next appointment.